Slow but Steady: North Atlantic Right Whales Make a Comeback

Portland (US): One of the world’s rarest whales is showing encouraging signs of recovery. Scientists report that the North Atlantic right whale population has grown to an estimated 384 in number, eight more than last year, continuing a slow upward trend over the past four years.

After a steep 25% decline between 2010 and 2020, this modest growth offers hope. Conservation efforts, particularly new safety measures in Canada’s Gulf of St. Lawrence to prevent ship strikes and fishing gear entanglements, appear to be making a difference, said Philip Hamilton, senior scientist at the New England Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Centre for Ocean Life.

While challenges remain, researchers are encouraged by signs of improved reproduction. Four whales became first-time mothers this year, and others had shorter intervals between calves. In total, 11 calves were born,fewer than hoped for, but a positive sign of new females joining the breeding population. Heather Pettis, who heads the right whale research programme at the Cabot Centre, said this year’s figures, no recorded deaths and fewer injuries, leave scientists “cautiously optimistic.”

Once hunted nearly to extinction, the North Atlantic right whale has been protected for decades. Each year, the species migrates from calving grounds off Florida and Georgia to feeding areas near New England and Canada. However, shifting ocean temperatures continue to push the whales beyond established safe zones in search of food. Even so, scientists say this fragile recovery is proof that sustained conservation can turn the tide for one of the ocean’s most endangered giants.